---
title: Search Engine Setup
description: Configure OpenHands to use Tavily as a search engine.
---

## Setting Up Search Engine in OpenHands

OpenHands can be configured to use [Tavily](https://tavily.com/) as a search engine, which allows the agent to search the web for information when needed. This capability enhances the agent's ability to provide up-to-date information and solve problems that require external knowledge.

### Getting a Tavily API Key

To use the search functionality in OpenHands, you'll need to obtain a Tavily API key:

1. Visit [Tavily's website](https://tavily.com/) and sign up for an account.
2. Navigate to the API section in your dashboard.
3. Generate a new API key.
4. Copy the API key (it should start with `tvly-`).

### Configuring Search in OpenHands

Once you have your Tavily API key, you can configure OpenHands to use it:

#### In the OpenHands UI

1. Open OpenHands and navigate to the Settings page.
2. Under the `LLM` tab, enter your Tavily API key (starting with `tvly-`) in the `Search API Key (Tavily)` field.
3. Click `Save` to apply the changes.

<Note>
  The search API key field is optional. If you don't provide a key, the search functionality will not be available to the agent.
</Note>

#### Using Configuration Files

If you're running OpenHands in headless mode or via CLI, you can configure the search API key in your configuration file:

```toml
# In your OpenHands config file
[core]
search_api_key = "tvly-your-api-key-here"
```

### How Search Works in OpenHands

When the search engine is configured:

- The agent can decide to search the web when it needs external information.
- Search queries are sent to Tavily's API via [Tavily's MCP server](https://github.com/tavily-ai/tavily-mcp) which
  includes a variety of [tools](https://docs.tavily.com/documentation/api-reference/introduction) (search, extract, crawl, map).
- Results are returned and incorporated into the agent's context.
- The agent can use this information to provide more accurate and up-to-date responses.

### Limitations

- Search results depend on Tavily's coverage and freshness.
- Usage may be subject to Tavily's rate limits and pricing tiers.
- The agent will only search when it determines that external information is needed.

### Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with the search functionality:

- Verify that your API key is correct and active.
- Check that your API key starts with `tvly-`.
- Ensure you have an active internet connection.
- Check Tavily's status page for any service disruptions.
